Why is Lower Back Pain Common?

Did you know a higher percentage of the world’s population, about 80% of adults, experience lower back pain? Usually, you use your back in almost every activity and movement, making it prone to health issues and pain. Lower back pain also happens without any health risks and may heal by itself. But, sometimes, the pain may indicate a problem; hence proper diagnosis is appropriate. The lower back pain Las Vegas specialist Dr. McNulty offers advanced diagnoses and treatments for all cases of lower back pain. Continue reading to learn more about lower back pain, the causes, and treatment options.

What are the causes of lower back pain?

Why do you think lower back pain is common? The lower part of your back has five vertebrae, which are fewer compared to your neck and midback vertebrae. The lower back bears the weight of your upper body hence susceptible to health issues.

The lower back also carries out various movements that put it at risk of developing injuries, wear, and tears.

Lower back pain can result from different causes, including injuries, health conditions, and spinal deformities. Acute back pain usually occurs from injuries, including sprains and strains of your back muscles and tissues. 

The following may be the reason for your back pain.

    • Herniated or bulging discs
    • Spinal stenosis
    • Osteoarthritis
    • Spondylolisthesis
    • Degenerative disc disease
    • Spondylosis
    • Kyphosis
    • Scoliosis
    • Osteoporosis fracture
    • Personal injury
    • Lordosis
    • Workplace injury

Nerve compression in your lower spinal cord might also lead to lower back pain. You are likely to experience weakness, shooting pain, and electrical sensations in your buttocks or legs.

Sciatica, a condition that occurs due to compression of a sciatic nerve, also causes lower back pain that travels down your legs to the feet.

When should you see a doctor for lower back pain?

Back pain that results from the strains and sprains of your back muscles and tissues usually improves within a few days, with home remedies for pain. 

But if your pain takes longer than a few weeks or becomes intense, it’s advisable to seek medical attention. Call McNulty Spine to make your consultation for diagnosis and treatments.

Diagnosis for lower back pain

During your appointment, your provider performs a thorough exam, including diagnostic tests, to identify your back pain causes, including

  • CT scan
  • X-rays
  • Bone scan
  • MRI
  • Myelography
  • Discography
  • Spinal injections

Your doctor also discusses your pain and symptoms. He checks the spine for abnormalities and leads you to perform some movements to identify the location and impact of the pain on your mobility.

What are the treatments for lower back pain?

There are many treatment options for lower back pain, both surgical and non-surgical. Your provider creates your treatment plan according to your specific pain issues, including

  • Physical therapy
  • Nerve blocks
  • Chiropractic treatment
  • Radiofrequency ablation
  • Spinal injections
  • Fusion surgeries
  • Disc placement
  • Reconstruction surgeries.

Usually, lower back pain should go away with rest or over-the-counter medications within a few days. When the pain persists, it’s good to book your appointment with your doctor. You can improve your risk for lower back pain with regular exercise, checking on your weight, and quitting smoking. Contact McNulty Spine today for diagnosis and treatment of lower back pain.